Simic GuildmageHow it works & interactions with other cards

Moving Counters and Auras

Simic Guildmage features two distinct activated abilities. The first allows you to move a +1/+1 counter between two creatures sharing a controller for {1}{G}. The second ability lets you move an Aura from one permanent to another permanent sharing a controller for {1}{U}. Note that for both abilities, the controller of the targets does not need to be you; you can rearrange your opponent's resources as long as the 'same controller' restriction is met.

Step-by-Step Resolution

When you activate the first ability, you must choose two target creatures with the same controller. Upon resolution, if both targets are still legal and controlled by the same player, one +1/+1 counter moves from the first to the second. For the second ability, you target only the Aura itself. As it resolves, you choose a new legal permanent to attach it to. This new permanent must be controlled by the same player who controls the original permanent and must be able to be enchanted by that specific Aura.

Common Pitfalls

A common mistake involves the first ability: you can target a creature that doesn't currently have a +1/+1 counter. However, if it has no counters when the ability resolves, nothing happens. For the Aura ability, remember that the Aura's 'enchant' restriction still applies. You cannot move an 'Enchant Land' Aura onto a creature, even if they share a controller. Additionally, if the two targets for the counter move no longer share a controller when the ability resolves, the ability fails.

When to Play It

Simic Guildmage is best utilized in the mid-game to protect your investments. If an opponent attempts to destroy a creature with many +1/+1 counters, you can respond by moving those counters to a safer unit. Similarly, if a creature enchanted with a powerful Aura is targeted by removal, you can pay {1}{U} to slide that Aura onto a different threat, ensuring you don't lose card advantage.

Interaction examples

Consolidating Power

Llanowar ElvesBirds of Paradise

You have a +1/+1 counter on Llanowar Elves but need a stronger attacker. You activate Simic Guildmage's first ability for {1}{G}, targeting Llanowar Elves as the source and Birds of Paradise as the destination. Since you control both, the counter moves to the Birds of Paradise, giving you a 1/2 flying creature.

Redistributing Resources

Birds of ParadiseLlanowar Elves

If your opponent casts a spell to destroy your Birds of Paradise which is currently enchanted by a powerful Aura, you can respond. Pay {1}{U} using Simic Guildmage to target that Aura. As the ability resolves, you choose your Llanowar Elves as the new host. The Aura moves to the Elves, and the opponent's removal spell now only destroys a bare Birds of Paradise.